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Periodontitis Meaning: Definition and Examples

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periodontitis

[ˌpɛrɪəʊˈdɒn.taɪ.tɪs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

dental disease

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. It can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues if not treated. The condition is often a result of poor oral hygiene that encourages plaque to form on teeth, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue.

Synonyms

gum disease, gum infection, periodontal disease.

Examples of usage

  • The dentist diagnosed her with periodontitis after a thorough examination.
  • Good oral hygiene can help prevent periodontitis and its complications.
  • He was referred to a specialist to treat his periodontitis.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Studies show that periodontitis is linked to other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes, emphasizing the importance of oral hygiene.
  • The inflammation in periodontitis is caused by plaque buildup, which can harden into tartar, making it important to visit the dentist regularly.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, maintaining oral hygiene is seen as a critical practice, influencing health beliefs and rituals around dental care.
  • Traditional remedies for gum disease can include natural products like clove oil or saltwater rinses, reflecting cultural approaches to health.

Prevention

  • Regular brushing and flossing, along with visits to the dentist, is key to preventing this disease, which is manageable with proper care.
  • The use of mouthwash with antibacterial properties helps in reducing plaque and fighting inflammation.

Psychology

  • The state of one's oral health, including conditions like periodontitis, can affect self-esteem and social interactions.
  • Research suggests that people experiencing dental issues are more likely to feel anxious about their appearance and smile less often.

Origin of 'periodontitis'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Greek roots: 'periodontas' meaning 'around' and 'itis' meaning 'inflammation,' literally translating to inflammation around the teeth.
  • In medical literature, the term emerged in the late 19th century as dental hygiene became a growing focus.

The term 'periodontitis' originates from the combination of Greek words 'peri' meaning 'around' and 'odons' meaning 'tooth'. The condition was identified as a pathological process affecting the supporting structures of the teeth over the years of dental research. The recognition of periodontitis as a serious dental issue has developed throughout the 20th century as awareness of oral health and its connections to overall health has increased. The condition can arise from various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and systemic diseases, making it a significant area of focus in dentistry.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,501, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.